Rascal Flatts Say New ‘Changed’ Album Represents the Band Well

Change is the air. Yesterday, we reported that Rascal Flatts renamed their 2012 tour for the sake of their eighth album release. Today (April 3), the new album — ‘Changed’ — is available in stores. If there was any doubt that the veteran country rockers have experienced quite a few changes in the past few years, bass guitarist Jay DeMarcus expels them.

“We’ve gone through a year and a half of monumental changes in the careers and the lives of Rascal Flatts,” says Jay DeMarcus (quote via Big Machine Records). “And for us it was a no-brainer when we heard the song and we sat down and we thought about where we are in life right now. It was the perfect message to say to the fans that we’ve indeed been changed in a big way.”

DeMarcus went on to say that the trio has experienced a number of business changes while making ‘Changed,’ and the group has recommitted themselves to their craft. Lead guitarist Joe Don Rooney agrees with his bandmate, adding that the new album shows growth and will not only excite longtime Rascal Flatts fans, but also attract some new ears, as well.

“I think our personalities really come out on this project, probably more so than any project we’ve done to this day. They really do,” Rooney says.

Hopefully, the band’s renewed commitment will show itself through a new energy when they take to the road in a few months. The 2012 Changed Tour kicks off on June 15 in Hartford, Conn.